The Race for OROY: Ranking the Top 5 Candidates for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year 2025
The 2024 NFL season saw incredible performances from its rookie class, setting the stage for an exciting race for the 2025 Offensive Rookie of the Year award. With the 2025 NFL Draft concluded, let’s dive into the top 5 candidates who are poised to make a significant impact and contend for the coveted OROY title. Just last year, Washington Commanders QB Jayden Daniels took the league by storm, leading his team to a 12-5 record and breaking rookie quarterback records. Who will follow in his footsteps this year?
1. Cam Ward (QB, Tennessee Titans)
Cam Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans, enters the league with immense expectations. The former Miami Hurricane is known for his arm talent, mobility, and ability to make plays under pressure. The Titans are banking on Ward to be their franchise quarterback, and he’ll have every opportunity to showcase his skills from day one.
Why he could win OROY: Ward possesses the raw talent and leadership qualities to excel in the NFL. If he can quickly adapt to the Titans’ offensive system and demonstrate consistent performance, he’ll be a strong contender. The Titans’ investment in him signals their commitment to building around him, providing him with the necessary resources to succeed.
2. Ashton Jeanty (RB, Las Vegas Raiders)
Ashton Jeanty, the explosive running back from Boise State, was selected sixth overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. Jeanty is a dynamic playmaker with exceptional speed, agility, and power. He is also a receiving threat out of the backfield, making him a versatile weapon for the Raiders’ offense. Last season at Boise State, Jeanty rushed for 2,601 yards and 29 touchdowns.
Why he could win OROY: Jeanty’s all-around skill set makes him a dangerous offensive weapon. If he can secure a significant role in the Raiders’ backfield and consistently produce both on the ground and through the air, he’ll be a serious threat to win the award. The Raiders haven’t had a dominant running back in years, and Jeanty could be the player to fill that void.
3. Travis Hunter (WR/CB, Jacksonville Jaguars)
Travis Hunter, the dynamic two-way star from Colorado, was drafted second overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Hunter is a rare talent who excels both as a wide receiver and a cornerback. It remains to be seen how the Jaguars will utilize him, but his versatility makes him a fascinating prospect. Hunter won both the Biletnikoff (most outstanding college receiver) and Benarik (most outstanding college defender) awards last season.
Why he could win OROY: Hunter’s unique ability to contribute on both sides of the ball gives him a distinct advantage. If he can make a significant impact at either wide receiver or cornerback (or both), he’ll be a strong contender. The Jaguars clearly value his talent and potential, and it will be interesting to see how they integrate him into their team.
4. Tetairoa McMillan (WR, Carolina Panthers)
Tetairoa McMillan, the talented wide receiver from Arizona, was selected by the Carolina Panthers. McMillan is a big, physical receiver with excellent hands and route-running ability. He is expected to be a key target for the Panthers’ quarterback and could quickly become a focal point of their passing game. In 2023, McMillan had the lowest drop rate (2.1 percent) among Power Five receivers with at least 100 targets.
Why he could win OROY: McMillan’s size, skill, and work ethic make him a promising NFL receiver. If he can establish a strong connection with the Panthers’ quarterback and consistently produce, he’ll be in the mix for the award. The Panthers are looking for a reliable receiving threat, and McMillan could be the answer.
5. Omarion Hampton (RB, Los Angeles Chargers)
Omarion Hampton, the powerful running back from North Carolina, was drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers. Hampton is a bruising runner with excellent size, strength, and determination. He is expected to compete for carries in the Chargers’ backfield and could become a valuable asset in their running game.
Why he could win OROY: Hampton’s physical running style and ability to break tackles make him a tough matchup for opposing defenses. If he can earn a significant role in the Chargers’ offense and consistently move the chains, he’ll have a chance to contend for the award. The Chargers are looking to establish a more physical identity, and Hampton could be a key part of that effort.
The Road Ahead
The race for the 2025 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award promises to be an exciting one. These five candidates possess the talent, potential, and opportunity to make a significant impact on their respective teams and contend for the coveted title. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to watch their progress and see who emerges as the frontrunner.